Local students winners in Rodrigue art contest

Two local high school seniors are among the top three winners in the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts fifth Annual Art Contest.

In partnership with the Audubon Nature Institute, GRFA and a panel of celebrity judges selected the top artwork from more than 750 submissions from Louisiana high school juniors and seniors.

Jacklyn Marr of St. Thomas More High School took the second-place prize, winning $5,500 in scholarship money. Emily Dugal, also from St. Thomas More, took third place with a $5,000 prize.

“My family and I are so happy that we are able to continue this art contest that Dad started,” said Jacques Rodrigue, executive director of George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts. “The talented students of Louisiana continue to amaze us with their work, and we plan on keeping this contest going for many years to come.”

The top senior winner, Audrey Marsh of St. Josephs Academy in Baton Rouge, was awarded a $6,000 scholarship and will have the opportunity to design a poster to be sold at all Audubon Nature Institute properties. Sales from these posters will benefit the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts and Audubon Nature Institute.

Since 2009, GRFA Art Contest received more than 2,400 entries from across Louisiana, awarding 88 students a combined $228,500 in college scholarships.

Other local winners

• Natalie Allen

, Senior, St. Thomas More High School, Lafayette: 11th place (tie), $1,000 scholarship